ISSN 0129-6868 MCI (P) 027/11/2020 THE METHODIST CHURCH IN SINGAPORE Vol 122 No 11 NOVEMBER 2020 BIG ISSUES THAT METHODISTS ARE FACING
Church life 3 Contents Methodists in the world 18 1 Bishop’s Message Christian living 22 2 Coming Up—One Heart, Soul, Mind and Strength MwCWWaiaecthnrehErhItatrilf’eisteyvcRhwceyealeokeEordooutsuah,ocLr:ndtoddaOuchttoneteosetaOint?nwmsvslrhKatidieCatebgyimIegaclNuotnpdMthhntum?GiteuctoIyssDolsbe@nlFeo!veuoPsOseumsshiSyrRstknoduroieesaaltrbVpluvtotsa-gieOho,grwelniroiLornedskt—aUrgds:iept,aNnoitohnwsowenTretyserEr.drpi:ooiEdtsrteattaR:sriohpnwgtbSyeoeeg.o!orsdrc?oscugoiokottDrmhnrarohateirircettvniysibilcmoepudl/ewui!tigsegiDsthnPiapot/tfrokhamoypgoeloooratmafopuekrpshemeehhaoodMsiacdftivsa/oMeee?srv/a?saean:anybtwntoesoyatthtttyhheheeirelnpryg 3 One MCS—Passing on a godly legacy 4 Church Profile—Seletar Tamil Methodist Church 5 One MCS—ETAC Highlights 6 Home—COVID-19 and missions 8 News—TRAC WSCS has a new president 9 News—Methodist Preschools 10 Home—Monica Lim 13 Home—The Rev Benjamin Lee 15 Home—The Stephen Family 16 Home—St Francis Methodist School’s 60th anniversary 18 Home—Creation Care SG 19 Welfare Services 20 Missions 22 You & Your Family 23 Hymns & Songs 24 Soundings 26 TRAC Bible Matters 28 Home—What does being a Methodist mean to you? 29 Looking Ahead 30 THINK EDITORIAL BOARD The official monthly publication of The Methodist Church in Singapore. Published material does not necessarily reflect the official view of The Methodist Church. Adviser and Publisher All Scripture quoted is based on the English Standard Version unless otherwise stated. Dr Anthony Goh Chairperson 70 Barker Road #06-04 Singapore 309936 Council on Communications 6478-4793 | 6478-4763 message.methodist.org.sg | www.methodist.org.sg Editor [email protected] Sheri Goh fb.com/Methodist.SG @methodist.sg Sub-editor Tan Chiu Ai Design & Production by Londonbob Design Printed by Adred Creation Print Pte Ltd Have something to say or share? Email us at [email protected] Communications Executive Jason Woo Proofreader Tan Sheng Ling
BISHOP’S MESSAGE Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung was elected Bishop of The Methodist Church in Singapore in 2016. He served as President of the Chinese Annual Conference from 2008 to 2016. Big issues that Methodists are facing W e are only 20 years into the 21st century, It also provides guidelines on how the Church can and we are already feeling the immense respond to issues related to new developments in impact of new technologies and inventions. the way the internet is being used. The plethora of We live in a world that is beyond the imagination content being created each day means that members of John Wesley, who lived in the 18th century. In his must be well advised on how not to infringe on book, The Radical Wesley, Howard A. Snyder records others’ intellectual property rights, and how to how, as Wesley led the reformation of the Church in discern fake news. The team has also made some England, he realised the need for breakthroughs in new suggestions on how the Church may play her the traditional and conservative methods of church role in society, with particular reference to Christian shepherding. Snyder wrote, “John Wesley saw that virtues, and how believers can continue to live out new wine must be put into new wineskins. So the commandments and great commission of Jesus. the story of Wesley’s life and ministry is the story of meeting and adapting structures to serve the Interacting with other religious burgeoning revival movement.” communities The Methodist Church will need to continually How do we express the social holiness of examine and renew its structures as well as its Methodism to love our neighbours, in Singapore, strategies on preaching the gospel. The Methodist one of the most multi-ethnic and multi-religious Church in Singapore (MCS) will hold fast to the countries in the world? We begin by showing absolute authority of the Bible; at the same time, respect for the religious beliefs of others’, in she will adopt a dynamic and heartening approach in line with the government policy as stated in the meeting the challenges of the fast-changing society. Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act (MRHA). It does not contradict what is declared in the Revising the Social Principles Constitution: a person has the right to profess and practise his religion, and to propagate it. It is Led by Christian ethics scholar, the Rev Dr Daniel in the spirit of loving our neighbours who are of Koh, a small team has carefully prepared a revised different faiths that we participate in the events edition of “Social Principles” for our deliberations. organised by the IRO (Inter-Religious Organisation) This is to enable the Church to respond appropriately and the non-religious get-together programmes to society’s new normal. For example, under “God’s of other religions. When local conferences of the gift of sex” in the section, “The Sphere of the Methodist Church conduct baptisms of converts, Family”, besides reaffirming the Bible’s stand on we need to be especially sensitive to the feelings matters of man-woman relationships, marriage and of their original religious communities. We must family, the team offers new suggestions on how conscientiously avoid any unnecessary actions pastoral care can be carried out in these areas. which may be deemed offensive by non-Christians. |METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020 1
Big issues that Methodists are facing Re-visiting Methodist Connectionalism bands into which believers were organised, and in which they could build up their spiritual life. Methodist Connectionalism is a key understanding Members were committed to attend such meetings of what it means to be a Church in Methodism, regularly. These provided the context for believers and it is also our distinguishing feature. Although to study their faith and build its foundation, share pastors are assigned by their respective Annual the challenges and struggles in their Christian Conference to local churches, all of them belong life, and support and pray for each other. It was to MCS, as do all members. Pastors are ordained through such close conversations that there was as Methodist Elders by the Bishop, who is elected mutual accountability. at the General Conference. In theory and practice, therefore, all Methodist Elders who fulfil the In the context of today’s society, there is an even conditions in The Book of Discipline are eligible for greater need for such small groups within the church, election as Bishop of MCS, regardless of the Annual which are divided into open cells and close cells. Conference that they are from. Believers today are challenged by many new social values and norms, and the COVID-19 pandemic has Singapore is a city-state, and our 46 local churches also gravely impacted believers’ families, jobs and are located within an hour’s drive of each other. It even church life. These challenges are expected to is therefore not difficult for pastors from different persist for the foreseeable future. annual conferences to cooperate with each other or to share resources. As such, we have tried very These are some of the issues that MCS faces and hard all these few years to realise the mindset of which we are to be concerned about and respond One Methodist Church in Singapore (One MCS). Its to. Our challenge has always been to bear witness purpose is to help the Church keep step with the to God’s unchanging truth in a world where changing times and face the challenges as one. situations and man’s thinking and attitudes keep changing. Let us remember the Bible’s words of Shepherding God’s church: Small group encouragement: “Do not be conformed to this ministry world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is The “discipleship movement” gives a major impetus the will of God, what is good and acceptable and to the shepherding of Methodist local churches. In perfect” (Rom 12:2). his days, John Wesley set up societies, classes and Coming Up ¢ One Heart, Soul, Mind and Strength |2 METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020 Join us for our first ever MCS 135 Youth Conference, “One Heart, Soul, Mind and Strength” (1HSMS), where Methodist youths and friends will unite to love and serve God in worship and celebration. 10 Dec 2020 (Thursday), 10 a.m. (online) Heart to Heart with Bishop and Annual Conference Presidents 10 Dec 2020 (Thursday), 2 p.m. (online) Youth Matters with the Rev Bernard Chao Sign up at http://bit.ly/1HSMS_talks 11 Dec 2020 (Friday), 7:30 p.m. (live and online) 1HSMS Night of Worship—One Heart Soul Mind Strength Sign up at http://bit.ly/1HSMS_NOW Limited to 70 registrants for the live event. Live-stream link for online viewing will be provided later.
One MCS ¢ David Ang is eagerly anticipating a movement by God amongst the fathers and households of the Methodist family. He worships at Kum Yan Methodist Church. He was one of the organisers of “Passing on a Godly Legacy”, a One MCS online event for Methodist fathers that was held on 17 Oct 2020. David Ang (extreme left) with his family Passing on a godly legacy T he best thing any father can do is to build a life, including leaving the senior corporate job I had lasting legacy. Many choose a legacy of wealth, or held for the past decade. intelligence, or even fond memories. However, for a man departing his earthly life, there is nothing more Ten years down the road, I can say that besides my assuring than knowing that those he leaves behind decisions to accept Christ and to marry Amy, I have have Christ in their hearts and lives. This is the best made no other better choice. The family is much gift from a father to his children. bonded, with a strong marital relationship and very close relationships between my children and me. The 17 Oct 2020 event was organised with this as a foundational starting point, and encapsulated in two I have not looked back since and have been an advocate words—“godly legacy”. In conjunction with celebrating for the critical role of fathering. Heading the Dads for the 135th year of Methodism in Singapore, it was a Life movement of the then-Ministry of Community grand opportunity to bring together the fathers from Development, Youth and Sports, and being part of the the three Annual Conferences. We are thankful for founding core team of Elijah7000 were opportunities to Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung’s clarion call to gather serve that have greatly blessed and changed me. Christian fathers to rise and take up the mantle of godly fatherhood in their homes. When the heart of the father is turned towards his wife and children, fuelled by God’s grace, there will My personal fatherhood journey has been intriguing be familial blessings and strength, and the home but rewarding. I recall one Friday evening in August prospers. The richness of family which fathers can build 2008, I had returned from a week-long business trip. is beyond anything the world can offer. Strong families That evening, as I was catching up with my family, I grow thriving communities, which lead to strong mentioned that I had to attend an LCEC meeting the next nationhood. Indeed, society’s bedrock is the family. day. In an instant, I could see the disappointment in 10-year-old Emmanuel’s face. He turned to me and said, In parallel, godly fatherhood is a natural agent for “Daddy, why do you abandon us again?” Those words discipleship and evangelism. Home is our first church went sharper than the sharpest knife into my heart. and children our first disciples. This is generational evangelism. I am praying for a Spirit-led movement I could hardly sleep that night but knew that God was in The Methodist Church where the fathers are on fire saying something to me through my son. From that for the Lord and their families, and thus building and point, I made some huge decisions to recalibrate my passing on a godly legacy. |METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020 3
Church Profile ¢ Seletar Tamil Methodist Church Deborah David is a member of Seletar Tamil Methodist Church (SELTMC) / Photos courtesy of SELTMC Come, let us rebuild St George’s Chapel, where Palm Sunday SELTMC currently worships service in April 2019 S eletar Tamil Methodist Church (SELTMC) has a rich 85-year history. Our SELETAR TAMIL METHODIST CHURCH forefathers—the Rev Subramanian, the Rev S. M. Thevathasam, and the Rev Pakianathan—were fervent and resilient in building a church to (Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference) minister to the Indians living in the vicinity of Seletar Airbase. Their tireless efforts and prayers resulted in SELTMC’s continued existence through the years. 63 Cranwell Road, S(509851) https://seletartmc.sg Although the church does not have a permanent place of worship, God has 9180-9052 been gracious in providing various locations for the congregation to gather (The Rev Saravanakumar, Pastor-in-charge) for services. They have met at Seletar Airbase, Abundant Grace Presbyterian Church, Syrian Orthodox Church, Salem Chapel and St George’s Chapel. On-site services have resumed! SELTMC aspires to involve all its members in building the Lord’s Kingdom. Thus, Registration is required due to MCCY limits. the church’s theme for the year is, “Come, Let Us Rebuild“. The church’s vision Please call the Rev Saravanakumar to register. is “To grow in His Word and to preach the Good News of God’s Kingdom that transforms lives”. These are vital pillars for the church. We are encouraged to Sunday Services grow in the Word to enjoy an intimate relationship with our Saviour. Next, as Christ’s ambassadors, we are tasked to preach the Good News to the lost so that Service 1: 8.00 a.m. to 8.45 a.m. they too could taste God’s sweetness. Lastly, Christ’s Great Commission compels Service 2: 9.15 a.m. to 10.00 a.m. us to be determined in transforming lives by making disciples. Service 3: 5.00 p.m. to 5.45 p.m.. In the past year, the church has focused on evangelism. For example, in Bible Study (via Zoom) December, SELTMC collaborated with its Bedok preaching point to share the joy of Jesus’ birth with 65 non-Christian families. The households were blessed Wednesdays, 8.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m. with words of encouragement and welfare packs. The families were also invited to the Carol Service organised by SELTMC and its preaching point. We continue Prayer (via Zoom) to minister to these families and bring them towards Christ. Fridays, 8.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m. Amidst the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, our Lord Zoom link will be provided. has remained faithful and enabled us to grow in unity. For instance, when Please contact the members could not gather in church for the weekly prayers, they met virtually Rev Saravanakumar for details. via Zoom for prayer. Furthermore, the different ministries, such as the Sunday School ministry, Methodist Youth Fellowship (MYF) and the Women’s Society of Christian Service (WSCS), conducted their respective programmes over Zoom. Using virtual applications for church events was novel to the members, but they have grown familiar with them and actively participate in the events. SELTMC has witnessed myriad challenges over the years, but our Refuge, the Lord Almighty, has never failed to carry us through each tumultuous period. God is SELTMC’s head, and we earnestly seek His will for growing the church He has graciously blessed us with. |4 METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020
One MCS ¢ ETAC Highlights The Rev James Nagulan was elected President of Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference (ETAC) in 2016 for the quadrennium. He is also Pastor-in-Charge of Tamil Methodist Church (Short Street) and Seletar Tamil Methodist Church. Mother’s Day poem-writing competition C hurches were closed due to COVID-19 control restrictions, and so, instead of their regular Mother’s Day celebration, ETAC WSCS organised a poem-writing competition. The theme was “motherhood”, and entries were received in both English and Tamil. Women penned their poems in the three categories: 1. Motherhood in general, or about their own mother 2. Expectant mothers or young mothers with children below five years old 3. Reflections on a Biblical character We received an overwhelming response of 47 entries. The following is the winning entry in the English category: Loving Mothers (By Ryna Raaj, Short Street TMC) Note from the writer: There are all kinds of mothers. Single mothers struggling to make ends meet, rationing food one day at a time. Working mothers, who may be seen to have forsaken their children emotionally or physically. Yet these kids yearn for their attention, not the latest gadget or toy. But the children are not away that their mum is busy, out working, so they can have a better life. There are also grandmothers who do not speak a word of English. Yet they have had to help their grandchildren navigate home-based learning during the circuit breaker period. “Loving Mothers” does not just describe mothers—it is also a call to action for families to value mothers, and not just on Mother’s Day. This poem can be read in 5 ways. Try it! Surely mothers are not appreciated enough. Measure of time, life spent caring for her family. How could that be when from within her, sprang life? But at the end of the day, she sits, devoid of any. All mothers are cruel. Say her children, It is impossible! The world will change. Her grandchildren won’t get their way. Yes. A life that comes from her womb, Through nurture as water and warmth is to a seed. Did it mean something? Even a plant becomes a sturdy tree. No. When day to day she leaves the child, Through sacrifice and grit, she carries on She ignores the screams of her child for attention? Still, a mother’s instinct weighs heavily on her mind. We are in no position to believe Beauty exists within us. Yet, we understand that love dwells within her. |METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020 5
Home ¢ Col (Ret) Quek Koh Eng is the Field & Church Engagement Director in MMS, and the MMS Area Director for Thailand and Vietnam. He is a member of Charis Methodist Church. This is an abridged version of the talk that he gave during the Methodist Missions Society’s virtual Missionary Retreat. COVID-19 and missions I t is folly at this early stage to discuss such subject as Secondly, global geopolitics and ensuing economics have complex as the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic affected global missions. Seasons of global conflict and on missions while events are still unfolding, and the economic upheaval have caused countries to look inwardly reactions by governments, churches and missions are still rather than globally, and there are more difficulties with evolving. However, because a tiny virus has become the obtaining visas and travelling outside of the country. The vehicle by which a great shaking has been delivered to Church’s capacity to send missionaries to other nations has our world, it still warrants a thoughtful examination and been greatly reduced. prayer-filled response. However, within weeks of COVID-19 causing quarantines Socio-economic impact and implications and lockdowns, we saw accelerated changes in training. Churches and organisations had no choice but to move The COVID-19 pandemic has spotlighted the gaps in the quickly into the digital age. Findings indicate that during world’s economic and social systems and structures. Many lockdown, more people watched and listened to online have lost their jobs and many have been forced into religious services, and missionary trainers are appreciating starvation and deep poverty. There is also a significant the breadth of digital technologies available to support increase in the number of people struggling with and enhance training. Correspondingly, more people have mental health issues due to job losses, economic crises, turned to faith in the midst of uncertainty and despair. struggles to cope with lockdown, domestic abuse, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, panic and depression—all these require The Methodist Missions Society (MMS) will continue to compassionate and effective responses. The Church needs enhance itself using reliable, secure technology and digital to be where people who are suffering can find love, care, means to do mission work. Innovation should be another support and acceptance. area that needs to be reinforced using audio technology and smartphones to evangelise to people groups that rely Over time, a global economic recession is expected to more on hearing of their own language than reading. unfold into a full-blown financial crisis. The World Bank suggests things will get worse before they get better. In Impact on church life the meantime, countries, societies and organisations will need to invest in new capabilities and capacities in order COVID-19 will by no means be the end of the Church. to rapidly adapt, anticipate change, manage risks and Christianity has endured countless plagues and pandemics, implement solutions to build a better normal. survived fire and flood, economic and natural disasters and systematic persecution, and has become stronger through Impact and implications on mission them. History showed that when missionaries have been agencies, organisations and churches forced out of a nation or region, the indigenous church grows under persecution or hardship. This is true when the Firstly, as church members suffered job losses and incomes, gospel seeds have been planted and intentional training the churches’ incomes from tithings and offerings reciprocally and equipping were actively implemented. declined and there were less funds available for missions. At the same time, austerity measures will be put in place Matthew 24:14 is a promise to encourage believers to to cope with many uncertainties in the horizon. Hence, the endure the hardship that was to come and Acts 1:8, Jesus support for cross-cultural missions may be affected, but we declaring what God will do, not what we should do. The hope in God’s grace that it will not be drastic. |6 METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020
The “new normal” at St Paul Methodist School in Timor-Leste, where the missionaries have to take temperature of their students before school every day urgency of human needs due to COVID-19 and its effects gives Outreach and Evangelism mission must continue to be a platform for believers to demonstrate the relevance of the empowered, such as through the countless digital outreach gospel in every aspect of life, and the desire of God to bring resources that are available for churches and Christians healing and wholeness to every aspect of human activity. who want to share their faith, such as inspiring stories, songs or films. Such resources when tailored to the local How mission agencies, organisations and context can be more effective. This is where our Methodist churches should respond to the COVID-19 crisis churches and MMS can work together to enhance God’s mandate and fulfilled the Great Commandment. No one knows how long the COVID-19 pandemic is going to last—what is certain is that there is no return to normalcy. Integrated mission also includes the powerful combination And when we discuss new ways to do cross-cultural of the church-planting movement with community ministry, there are no one-size-fits-all solution. However, development that helps to uplift the livelihoods and there are certain fundamental cross-cultural principles transform the lives of those in indigenous communities. that we need to maintain and continue to reinforce: A senior pastor from the Sri Lankan Evangelism Alliance lamented that “COVID-19 is teaching [indigenous The Church is the body of Christ, made of people and not churches] that the more dependent they are, the more buildings. Churches that are growing healthily are those they are going to suffer”. We need to help the indigenous that focus on small groups ministry and discipleship churches and the communities they are in to first consider where transformation of lives take place and disciples are what they have available within their communities and made most effectively. Our emphasis must therefore be to provide solution to communal problems and needs to enhance small-group ministry, and discipleship training without too much dependence on outside resourcing, and and equipping. build their financial capabilities and capacities to be self- reliant and self-sustainable. MMS has established proper structure and institutions that are operationally effective and self-reliant over 29 years Conclusion in most of our seven mission fields. Intentional training and leadership development have been the hallmark in While COVID-19 presented an unprecedented challenge, it equipping the indigenous leadership so that they can stand has spotlighted numerous gaps in society and opened up on their own in time to come. Even during this COVID season, many inroads for evangelism, outreach, care and comfort the MMS mandate of church-planting and community of the people. In addition, it has forced a rethink in the development are still being effectively executed by the way churches can maintain viable communication and indigenous leadership supported by our missionaries. discipleship, and the care and nurture of its members. From a missions perspective, the work is cut out for us to drive MMS needs to adopt a holistic approach that should not a holistic, sustainable approach to nurture self-sufficient just be during a season of global pandemic and economic churches and communities in the field. crisis, but rightly belongs at the heart of mission. Mission work should minister the gospel to the whole person and The Rev Leslie Lim, MMS community, and manifest God’s heart for the vulnerable missionary pastor to (the poor; widows; orphans; and refugees), the spiritual Vietnam, connecting with gift of hospitality and Christianity’s foundational values of his congregation via Zoom generosity and compassion.
News ¢ Text and photos courtesy of TRAC WSCS TRAC WSCS has a new president Neo Lay Tin, who has T he biennial election of office bearers at the annual general been elected as TRAC meeting (AGM) of the Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC) WSCS President from Women's Society of Christian Service (WSCS) is usually 2020–22 held at an overseas location. The pandemic changed all norms, resulting in a virtual AGM that was conducted via Zoom on 10 Oct 2020. TRAC President, Bishop-Elect Dr Gordon Wong spoke at the start of the AGM and also at the installation service of elected officers at Pentecost Methodist Church. Speaking on Ephesians 3:14–21 and John 4, he reminded us that Christ must remain the focus of all our activities as we serve in love and through the power of the Holy Spirit. 150 participants attended this 45th AGM. It was not all business during the seven-hour meeting, as there were fun segments and fellowship in breakout rooms, as well as delicious coffee delivered by Ark Coffee. A highlight of the AGM was the election of a new TRAC WSCS president, Neo Lay Tin, who was Bedok Methodist Church’s local WSCS president (2010–14) and chairperson of its Family Life ministry (2015–19). She was the former Executive Director of Children’s Cancer Foundation and serves on the board of the Parkinson Society Singapore. The ladies look forward to working alongside Lay Tin in the 2020–22 term. Lay Tin succeeds Choo Lai Eng, who has completed her two terms as president. The ladies give thanks to the Lord for Lai Eng who, with boundless energy, initiated many programmes in TRAC WSCS over the past four years. |8 METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020
News ¢ By the Council on Education / Photos courtesy of the Council on Education Methodist Preschools A combined stake in the future of the Church—off to a good start! Children from Kampong Kapor Methodist A town hall event for Foochow Methodist Church with their artwork Church Kindergarten earlier this year P reschool education has traditionally been seen Bishop Dr Chong conveyed that the Church must affirm that as a strength of the Church. Over the years, while preschools are an important social responsibility of ours. commercial ones could shift their operations to the Secondly, preschools serve as “a very important bridgehead latest neighbourhood centres, the church kindergartens as the Church faces the spread of new movements and new stayed put. Thus, as demographics changed over time, doctrines that will affect future generations”. He reminded half of our church kindergartens have had to close after all that in order to establish steadfast values according to struggling for years with falling enrolment and substantial biblical truth, it is necessary to have proper and balanced financial losses. In his speech to the pastors, management teaching, beginning with the preschools. Thirdly, we are committee members, principals and staff who had gathered all urged to work towards “church to church, or preschool online for the annual Methodist Preschools Long Service to preschool collaboration… We must have a kingdom Award ceremony, Bishop Dr Chong noted that, “We (the mind-set, where we seek one another’s good, combine our Church) were satisfied that we were providing low-cost resources to run together, for we have a combined stake kindergartens or preschool education to the community in the future of the Church.” With that, the children in our and neglected to have a holistic strategy to develop our Methodist preschools are “off to a good start!” teachers and upgrade our teaching resources.” Henry Tan, Chairman of MPSPL, expressed, “We are so On 30 July 2020, The Methodist Church in Singapore (MCS) grateful that the leadership of MCS is fully behind the approved the setting up of a new agency to be called consolidating of Methodist preschools as we share common the Methodist Preschool Services Pte Ltd (MPSPL), which branding and curriculum. We hope to be able to provide a was then successfully incorporated on 4 Sep 2020. It will holistic education based on Christian values that helps to work with the local churches to take over the preschool nurture our students’ potential.” businesses under one umbrella. Coming together as one will facilitate the integration of best practices in curriculum A town hall event for Foochow and administration, the introduction of unique learning Methodist Church Kindergarten experiences, as well as joint staff development. Kwok earlier this year Wan Yee, Education Secretary, said, “With many centres under one umbrella, we can look forward to working closer together, drawing on one another’s strengths and being more courageous regarding innovations. We can also expect economies of scale and the harmonising of HR policy and practices, and build our brand on the Methodist heritage of excellence in education.” |METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020 9
Home ¢ Monica Lim runs a copywriting agency and a blog on kids and education. She is the author of The Good, the Bad and the PSLE, and has co-authored 14 children’s books with her daughter, Lesley-Anne, some of which have garnered awards. She is a member of Christ Methodist Church. / Photos courtesy of Monica Lim Monica Lim Art pandemic 2 020 has been a strange year, to say the least. Shortly after I turned 50 in January, COVID-19 hit. Even though the impact on my business has been manageable, new jobs have been slow in coming in. As a result, I was left with a lot of free time—time to fret and stare at the ceiling, wondering if things were going to get worse before they got better. Then my daughter suggested I take up art again. I don’t have art training but I dabbled in it mostly during my undergraduate days. Since then, I’d barely touched it, except for a few pieces in the 1990s. In May 2020, I decided to draw building sketches of the Spain family holiday we had taken in 2019, using markers. What started out as an activity to pass time quickly evolved into a whirlwind adventure in art that consumed me. One month after I picked up a marker, I started selling art for charity. At first, the hardest part was not the work, but parting with the drawings. I asked God, “Remove my attachment to the drawings and let my heart for the needy be bigger.” And remarkably, He did. By mid-July, I had sold 21 art pieces and raised almost $2,500. 和散那治丧服务 Hosanna Bereavement Services Your one-stop bereavement and funeral-related services For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39 Hosanna Bereavement Services Pte Ltd (A Subsidiary of the Methodist Co-operative Society Ltd) Block 4 Toa Payoh Lorong 8 Industrial Park #01-1333 Singapore 319056 Tel: 6259-4560 Fax: 6259-4095 Email: [email protected] Web: www.hosannabereavement.com.sg 24-Hour Helpline: Contact Ricky Guok @ 6352-7797
Monica’s first pet portrait commission Peggy (another pet portrait) Sagrada Monica is selling her artwork Familia (one and taking commissions for of the early pet portraits. 80 per cent of Spain project the price of each work will drawings go to one of these four using charities (the buyer’s choice): markers) TWC2; HealthServe; Willing Hearts; or YWAM. I also found my skills improving exponentially. I ventured into drawing animals, The remaining will cover the something which had previously been difficult for me, and found to my amazement cost of materials and postage. that I now had a knack for it. I remember drawing a dog and telling God, “I’ve never For more information, go to drawn tongues or teeth—that looks impossible!” I just copied the reference photo as best as I could, stepped back and was shocked to discover that it looked realistic. No artpandemic.blogspot.com one was more excited than I was! I’m convinced God’s hand was guiding mine. fb.com/monartpandemic After successfully drawing ONE dog and ONE cat, I recklessly decided to offer pet portrait services to fund-raise. I guess I assumed God would come through for me. “God, I offer my service, and you bring the customers, ok?” I got my first commission almost right away, from a complete stranger. She didn’t want a cat or a dog, but two rabbits. “God, I’ve never drawn rabbits!” I prayed. “Someone’s paying good money for this. You’ve gotta help me.” (Yes, I was trying to emotionally blackmail God.) And God, being gracious, acquiesced. After that, I received more commissions, and even as I struggled with some of them, they all miraculously turned out well each time. To date, over $4,800 has been raised for charity. People tell me my art is a gift and I agree—it is not a talent, but a present. I’m finding this art journey incredibly fulfilling, and I believe that because I dedicated the gift to God to bless others, He’s blessing me in ways that I cannot fathom. I don’t know where this is headed but wherever God leads, I’m ready. |METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020 11
ACS (International) Singapore is a distinctive ACS (International) international secondary school open to all Admissions Seminars Singaporeans & other nationalities, offering an all-round English-based education for students for 2021 aged 12 to 18 years leading to the International General Certificate of Secondary Education Post PSLE Seminar for Locals (IGCSE) and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). 26 November, 1pm & 3pm School Senior Management Team 27 November, 10am, 1pm & 3pm Mr Rob Burrough Mrs Tan Siew Hoon 28 November, 9:30am & 11:30am Principal Vice Principal RSVP [email protected] Seminars will be held on Campus with School Tour Attendance is limited and by reservations only Venue: Oldham Chapel, ACS (International) 61 Jalan Hitam Manis, Singapore 278475 Please contact Joseph Ng or Serene Lim at +65 6472 1477 or [email protected] Mr Gavin Kinch Dr Kristopher Achter Vice Principal Vice Principal
Home ¢ By the MCS Communications Team / Photos courtesy of the Rev Benjamin Lee J-WALK for SCGM F rom 1 Sep to 10 Oct 2020, the Rev Benjamin Lee from The Rev Wesley Methodist Church completed a 10km daily jog Benjamin or walk (otherwise known as J-WALK), to raise funds Lee walking for the Singapore Centre for Global Missions (SCGM) in his 10km every private capacity. By embarking on this 40-day personal day for 40 endeavour, the Rev Ben’s target was one of the fund-raising days, either campaigns to help raise $40K for SCGM’s 40th Anniversary. alone, or with friends Throughout this J-WALK, the Rev Ben’s greatest motivation or family, to was his commitment as a Council member to the SCGM raise funds staff. Seeing the faith each of them has for the Lord’s work for SCGM inspired him to press on. SCGM is a centre established by local pastors and His J-WALKs brought him many interesting observations and missions leaders in Singapore for promoting world reflections. An early morning J-WALK had him wondering if missions. Since 1980, we have been serving local the people around his estate, still fast asleep, truly had rest churches in developing missions policies, training in Christ. A jog around a reservoir brought Matthew 7:24 to programmes and organising national level missions his mind, when seeing the same man run past him thrice surveys, missions consultations and training seminars. led him to wonder “how we are running our lives and if we have the right destination in mind”. From learning to https://www.scgm.org.sg contemplate and enjoy being silent before the Lord in the fb.com/SporeCGM midst of busyness, to appreciating the fellowship when people join him in the J-WALKs, it has helped him realise From 1 Sep 2020 to 9 Feb 2021, in celebration of its 40th how important it is to cultivate time with the Lord and to anniversary, SCGM will be raising $400k through various journey with one another in our lives. campaigns so that it can continue to support the ministerial work it does in Singapore, such as through urban missions, Just as God’s Word and presence sustains him, the Rev Ben’s contextual missions, creation care and strategic thought wife supported and nourished him with food to help keep leadership. For more information, go to: him in good health. She also provided wise advice—while the Rev Ben initially had not wanted to put a plaster on https://www.scgm.org.sg/campaign a blister that had formed during his J-WALK, it helped the blister to heal and for him to keep up his daily target. In |METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020 13 the Rev Ben’s words, “real men listen to their wise wives”! After the 40 days of daily 10km walks, the Rev Ben reflected on his journey: “Some days, what beats down is the sun; on other days, pours down is the rain—but on all days it is the Son who sustains. The sustaining grace of the Lord has been so evident to me through the 40 days, whether in strengthening my knees, or in providing loved ones and friends to J-WALK with me, or just having people send me encouraging words. “Likewise, in the work of missions, because it is the Lord who has promised that He Himself will build the Church, it is ultimately He who will provide the sustaining grace to all who are persevering, and we can all hope and find strength and renewal in that.”
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Home ¢ By the MCS Communications Team / Photos courtesy of Joel and Ian Stephen Blessed to serve F athers have always played a big part in impacting and (from left) Ian Jeriah influencing their children’s lives. Stephen with his father, Joel, mother and brother During the school break in May, Ian Jeriah Stephen, a Primary 5 student from Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) wondered why A grateful his father, Joel Stephen, was leaving home past midnight and migrant worker only returning a couple of hours later. Ian later found out that receiving the his father had been helping his uncle, a pastor who runs a packed meals charity to deliver free meals to Muslim migrant workers before their fast during Ramadhan, and was inspired to help out. |METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020 15 Ian’s response was not an impulsive one—in the past, he had met many migrant workers through his church. He realised that they had left their families to come and work in Singapore so that they could provide a better life for those back home. He understood the hardships and struggles they faced, especially during the COVID-19 circuit breaker period. The tiredness and lack of sleep from having to set off at 1.30 a.m. for a few nights did not stop Ian from volunteering. In fact, it made him realise how comfortable own life is in Singapore and he was glad to play a part in blessing these migrant workers. He was also heartened to see so many others, from different walks of life, also coming forward to help deliver meals. Because of Joel’s encouragement and reminder “to never forget about those that are needy and downtrodden in society as the heart of our Heavenly Father goes out to them”, Ian has made it a point to give to the needy and help his parents in their volunteer work, especially for the migrant workers. Modelling after his own father who went at great lengths to care for others, Joel hopes to keep Ian and his other son, Ivan, grounded with the same values and principles just as he had been taught, “that we are most Christ-like when we truly see those around us with the compassion and concern that Christ would have for them and do what we can to extend a helping hand”. He said, “Today, it’s so easy for them to get caught up with the busyness and the distractions of modern life and lose sight of what’s most important, a life lived with and for God. I’ve endeavoured to keep them grounded in their faith and to always value the love and togetherness of family. I know that out of this, the seeds of a life of purpose, centred around God, will bear fruit.”
Home ¢ Text and photos courtesy of St Francis Methodist School God’s handiwork: St Francis Methodist School’s 60th anniversary “For we are God’s handiwork , created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Eph 2:10 NIV A special video T his year, St Francis Methodist School (SFMS) celebrates montage to 60 purpose-driven years with an overarching theme encourage the that epitomises the school’s purpose and values: migrant workers in God’s handiwork, created to do good works. Singapore We launched a year-long celebration to mark this significant milestone. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, many of the events and activities have to be conducted virtually or scaled down. The beginning SFMS was founded in 1960 by the honourable Mrs Harriet Doraisamy. She started the school, then known as St Francis Girls’ School, to help 27 students prepare for their national examinations. Founder “The training of a good citizen does not only Mrs Harriet involve academic education. Most important of Doraisamy all is the instilling, in the hearts and minds of and a student pupils, their concern for the well-being of their fellowman. I feel the school is the place where Year 11 students this spirit can be embedded.” from the IBDP —Mrs Harriet Doraisamy collected donated items to bless 2 A student- In line with Mrs Doraisamy’s vision, the students actively nursing homes and organised served the interests of the community through outreach a children’s home activity for the activities, such as visiting orphanages and helping in residents of fund-raising events. |16 METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020 an old folks’ home When Mrs Doraisamy retired in 1995, she handed the school over to The Methodist Church in Singapore (MCS). The school was renamed St Francis Methodist School and became co-educational. SFMS moved to its present location at Upper Bukit Timah Road in 2001. Giving back SFMS has been continuing our founder’s spirit of giving and John Wesley’s belief in the importance of character building. This is even more so as our 60th anniversary we celebrated our 60th anniversary this year.
With the COVID-19 pandemic adversely affecting lives Founded in 1960, St Francis Methodist School and morale, SFMS rallied to encourage and express our (SFMS) is an established local private school, gratitude to frontline healthcare workers and the school’s offering primary, secondary and pre-tertiary service providers through beautiful handmade cards with education in Singapore. SFMS offers a Singapore heartfelt messages of hope and appreciation. We also approach to learning in an international school cheered our migrant friends in Singapore on with a video environment, and is the first choice for pursuing montage of prayers and words of encouragement. the Cambridge Primary Programme, English Immersion Programme, Singapore-Cambridge When everyone returned to school for classes, the Student GCE ‘O’ Level, Cambridge IGCSE, Upper Secondary Service Learning (SSL) team and our pioneer cohort of Australian Matriculation Programme (AUSMAT), Year 11 students from the International Baccalaureate Western Australian Certificate of Education Diploma Programme (IBDP) collaborated in a donation (WACE) and International Baccalaureate Diploma drive to bless two nursing homes and a children’s home. Programme (IBDP). SFMS provides students with All played a part in ensuring the success of this drive— opportunities to grow holistically and achieve parents generously contributed food and daily necessities, their aspirations. Guided by the Word of God, students and staff helped pack the items, and students SFMS empowers individuals to fulfil their purpose also coloured Bible verses and folded wishing stars to of doing good works. boost the recipients’ morale. 492 Upper Bukit Timah Road, S(678095) Giving thanks 6760-0889 www.sfms.edu.sg We are thankful to God for His many blessings. Wonderful [email protected] stories of God’s blessings have been compiled into a four- fb.com/sfms.singapore part series, with each part recounting the milestones that @sfms_sg have shaped the school as well as showcasing stories from staff members and alumni. To commemorate our 60th anniversary, each student and staff member received a limited edition 60th Anniversary EZ-Link card. We are also thankful for our school pioneers and leaders. Under their capable leadership, the school flourished and is today, a vibrant international learning community with over 20 nationalities. We praise God that we can fulfil our purpose of doing good works, and by His grace, to continue doing so as SFMS progresses beyond 60. To God be all the glory! St Francis Methodist School’s present location at 492 Upper Bukit Timah Road |METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020 17
Home ¢ By the MCS Communications Team / Photos courtesy of Dennis Tan, Liaw Ann Shin and Vinnie Chua Methodist youths and creation care Liaw Ann Shin “It’s okay, God will give us a new Earth anyway.” Dennis Tan Is this a mindset that we fall into when faced with environmental issues? Fortunately, we have members of our community like Dennis Tan, Liaw Ann Vinnie Chua Shin and Vinnie Chua, whose mission is to advocate for creation care. Follow Creation Care SG at Brought together by mutual friends and a shared passion for nature, this group of university students came together with fellow Christians to form fb.com/creationcare.sg Creation Care SG. They hope that more Christians will see caring for God’s @creationcare.sg world as a central part of our faith, and for unified efforts to make churches more sustainable. |18 METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020 The seeds of their efforts have already begun to sprout. Back in July, Dennis, who attends Sengkang Methodist Church (MC), had the idea to create a devotional about creation care. With the help of many Methodists, lay and clerical, this resulted in the Seasons of Creation devotional.1 Within their own churches, Dennis, Shin and Vinnie have also seen efforts cut down on waste such as recycling paper bulletins and reducing plastic use. Still, there is a long way to go for local creation care ministries. Creation Care SG realises that while church leaders have begun to realise the importance of creation care, and some church have taken some steps towards sustainability, most of their members don’t really know what creation care is about, or what their churches have done. The group hopes that more pastors will share the biblical perspective of environmental issues, as caring for God’s world is one of the Methodist Social Principles. They also hope for more corporate prayer for the environment; reducing waste at church events, and ultimately to move beyond individual churches’ efforts by recognising that creation care is the duty of every Christian. As young adults on a mission, they are keeping faith that God will provide avenues for them to further their cause, both in job prospects as well as within church. “I think that we have to remember that creation care is something that God has called all Christians to do and that he will help us in our journey to achieve this,” says Vinnie, who is from Bukit Panjang MC. Adding on, Shin, from Faith MC, reminds us: “Keep exploring and be open to various opportunities and even when prospects look bad, trust that wherever God places us, He can use us mightily to be a blessing to society.” 1Download Seasons of Creation at https://methodist.org.sg/index.php/what-s-happening/610- season-of-creation-devotionals
Welfare Services ¢ By the Methodist Welfare Services (MWS) Communications Team / Visuals courtesy of Methodist Welfare Services Easing the Burden of COVID-19 T he COVID-19 pandemic has hit everyone hard, especially the vulnerable in our community who are already facing challenging circumstances. When Joey Loh, a social worker from Methodist Welfare File photo of counselling in action Services (MWS), first visited her in Feb 2020, Mdm H was already in dire straits. Married with four young children, she “I received $1,350, which I used to pay bills and settle a was then in the process of divorcing her abusive husband. loan payment with my aunt. I had borrowed from her earlier He was an absent father who was hardly around and only and I’m now paying her back monthly. supported the family by way of paying the children’s school fees. On her logistics assistant’s salary, she was barely “I was really glad to have the money as my kids can finally making ends meet. enjoy the food they want. I normally make plain rice with kicap (a type of soy sauce), but when I used some of the The COVID-19 effect money to buy some prawns, they were so happy,” shared Mdm H, her voice cracking with emotion. When the COVID-19 pandemic surfaced, Mdm H’s company changed her working hours from 8.30 a.m.–6.15 p.m. to Things are looking up for Mdm H now, as she has moved 6.30 a.m.–4 p.m., in line with safety measures. This meant into a rental flat with her children and no longer has to put that she could no longer send her children to preschool and up with domestic violence and embarrassment. Her children primary school before she started work. Her divorce had just have returned to school, and are gainfully occupied. been finalised, and without caregiving support from her ex- husband, she was left with no choice but to leave her job. She has also been applying for jobs in the logistics industry, and is looking forward to the day when she can have an Things got worse when the circuit breaker period started income to support the family. in Apr 2020. With the children cooped up at home with not much to do, they became more demanding, causing Mdm H to reach her breaking point. “I was close to committing suicide, but Joey picked me up and helped me,” she revealed. The social worker had told her: “If you were to commit suicide, your kids would lose you. Their father isn’t going to take care of them. How would your kids survive without you?” A Welcome Relief To support MWS’ other fundraising initiatives, To help Mdm H tide through the tough time, Joey helped her apply for funds under the Donate to Bless campaign, please visit mws.sg/give which MWS had established to provide financial assistance of $1,350 each to 1,000 affected families. To date, the or scan the QR code. campaign has raised more than $1.5 million and received applications for financial assistance from over 800 families. |METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020 19
Missions ¢ Grace Chung serves as MMS Church Engagement Manager. She chaired the Task Force that planned and conducted the Virtual Missionaries’ Retreat 2020. / Photo courtesy of MMS RESTing in the Lord! Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matt 11:28 E very two years, the Methodist Missions Society After much deliberation, our team and our personnel (MMS) invites all our missionaries and their families committee (PC) established our theme for this retreat: to our Missionaries’ Retreat, normally held in a hotel “Refresh, Engage, Share, Touch.” The retreat’s objective in West Malaysia. With COVID-19 travel restrictions travel, was to uplift our missionaries spiritually, emotionally, we had to leverage on technology to continue to have our mentally and physically. In these challenging times, it is 2020 Retreat, albeit in the virtual realm. imperative that we care for the holistic well-being of our missionaries and their families. There were challenges in bringing 57 participants—our missionaries from our seven mission fields and our home To achieve this, the planned programme included sharing staff—together in a virtual environment, as well deciding by our guest speaker Mr Daniel Wong, the Minister-at- on a timing of the retreat that worked for everyone. But Large of OMF, on the topics of missionary self-care in none of these challenges deterred us from having our first areas including re-entry, engagement, strengthening virtual Missionaries’ Retreat from 25 to 26 Sep 2020. We relationships and transformation. Retreat participants were believe in the faithfulness of God and His promises, that then provided with updates on the proposed amendments all things will become good when we focus on His plans, to the personnel policy for missionaries. These sessions and not ours. were discussed in breakout sessions, facilitated by MMS |20 METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020 Registration at our Columbarium Office (Level 5) Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm (Closed on Public Holidays). Tel: 6479 8122 HP: 9670 9935 or Fax: 6479 6960 Email: [email protected]
Participants at the MMS Missionaries’ Retreat leadership and PC members. Mr Alvin Tan, Chairman of Our missionaries shared that they were MMS, shared about MMS Strategic Overview and Col (Ret) greatly blessed by the experience. Quek Koh Eng, MMS Field and Church Engagement Director, • “The retreat was a wonderful time of sharing, shared on Post COVID-19 Relevancy—the Implications of COVID-19.1 learning and fellowship. I learnt about our missionary kids too! And importantly, about It was not all serious work as our missionaries had a great praying for one another and our mission fields.” and fun time with specially-chosen online games. They • “My expectations were more than met, and I also had virtual meals together with their breakout group could experience the presence of the Holy Spirit members. A segment on our missionary kids was also as we shared and prayed together for MMS.” part of the programme. Fellowshipping and engaging our Home staff and PC members were also well-received. Please pray for: To end the retreat, we had a Closing and Affirmation • God’s protection over all our missionaries, Service to affirm our Timor-Leste missionary, Rasanya national pastors, leaders, as well as their Gnasegaran, as an MMS missionary as she had completed families in MMS mission fields as they share the her internship. Throughout the two days, we were love of God and ensure ministry continuity in privileged to have Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung, Bishop- their respective churches as they fulfil the Great Elect Dr Gordon Wong, the President of the Chinese Commission. Annual Conference, the Rev Dr Gregory Goh Nai Lat, and the President of the Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference, • Members and friends to continue to provide the Rev James Nagulan, to encourage, inspire and pray for financial support to the MMS General Fund, our missionaries and mission fields. which will enable MMS to meet our ministry needs in our mission fields. This has been a momentous retreat—the first time one to be conducted in a virtual environment. The theme and 1An abridged version of Col (Ret) Quek’s sharing can be found on page 6. objectives set were met in a wonderful and exuberant atmosphere. The organising task force has been blessed |METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020 21 by the success of the retreat, and we give thanks to our Almighty God for the privilege to serve not just our missionaries, but also our Lord. We have been humbled by His faithfulness.
You & Your Family ¢ Benny Bong has been a family and marital therapist for more than 30 years, and is a certified work-life consultant. He was the first recipient of the AWARE Hero Award, received in 2011, and is a member of Kampong Kapor Methodist Church. Lest we forget Connection, compassion, constants “Lest we forget” is often associated with In our haste to resume “normal” life, let us not forget what we have learnt nor the things we have come to appreciate. remembrance ceremonies of the Great Wars. It is an appeal So here is my attempt to remind ourselves lest we forget. to the living not to repeat the mistakes that led to such tragic waste of lives. An estimated 40 million lives were Firstly, the importance of social connection. The lack of lost in World War One. Unfortunately, humankind soon social contact not only makes us feel isolated; it can trigger forgot any lessons learnt—40 years later, another 60 million depressive feelings and moods. With social interaction died in World War Two. being restricted to limit possible transmission of COVID-19, many have come to treasure times when we can visit This phrase came to mind during the current post-circuit family and friends. Even though the urge for connection breaker phase. During the circuit breaker, our lives and may be met through phone calls or online chats, these do routines were severely disrupted. Many had to work not come close to the face-to-face encounters. from home or lost their jobs entirely. Our children did home-based learning and could not play outdoors. Social Secondly, the surprise of compassion. News reports of gatherings were severely restricted and entertainment acts of compassion, sometimes by complete strangers, venues shut. never cease to encourage me. I am heartened to read about the selfless dedication shown by the carers, With the disruption came unexpected benefits, including healthcare professionals and essential service providers relationships. Family-centred activities increased, with who went above and beyond the call of duty while taking some trying their hand at baking and cooking together. considerable personal risk. It would seem that in giving, A downside was when tempers flared as family members the giver receives too—be it the joy or the satisfaction of had a bit too much of each other. Even as there were helping a fellow human being. It is through such acts of curbs on face-to-face contact, family and friends found compassion we rediscover our humanity. ways to stay connected. When we were not able to gather physically to worship God, many more spiritual-related Lastly, the reminder of constants. Jobs may come and go “gatherings” occurred, albeit online. It was as if we and health may wane, but there are constants in life we remembered to value relationships and connections. all cling to for hope. They may be our belief in humankind, the wealth of care of family, or our faith in the Almighty. As the circuit breaker restrictions are slowly being eased, What is the constant that you are reminded of during these it appears that life is returning to how it was pre-COVID-19. difficult times? What is the constant that you cling to? And The focus now seems to be on making up for lost time and what precious lessons do you want to hang on to? opportunities, and on opening up the economy safely. |22 METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020
Hymns & Songs ¢ Judith Laoyan-Mosomos is the Director for Worship and Church Music at the Methodist School of Music, and a member of Kampong Kapor Methodist Church. In Your Kingdom Lord I n response to the issue of racism and protests in North IN YOUR KINGDOM LORD America, Lim Swee Hong, who is a member of Wesley Methodist Church and was a lecturer at Trinity Theological In your kingdom Lord there is justice and peace. College from 2006–10, wrote this song to “remind us about in your kingdom Lord there is love. the essence of our faith at a time when society privileges the ‘well-to-do’—particularly those who are in the majority, and In your kingdom Lord one need not be rich, have access to power, wealth and fame”.1 Although it was to be welcomed to your feast written in the context of North America, where Swee Hong is based, the issue is germane to Asia as well. Chorus: Can your kingdom really be present in our time Embracing those who are different from us is a fundamental teaching from our Lord. Swee Hong explains further: “We as Where hate and fear prevail? God’s people need to be aware and return to living out the Can your kingdom really be where evil has no place teaching of our Lord about loving God with our heart, mind, soul and strength and loving our neighbours (which I define And everyone feels safe. as those who are different from us). This is the way in which In your kingdom Lord our worship becomes acceptable to God; only then can we experience God’s kingdom breaking into this world.”2 the wolf and the lamb shall feast together as friends. The song describes God’s kingdom as a place where there is justice and peace, love and unity. But it raises doubt whether In your kingdom Lord this kingdom is one that we can experience in our present Love is the seal that marks all who call you Lord. time. The second stanza alludes to Isaiah 11:6 with the imagery of the wolf feasting with the lamb. This is a familiar Coda: verse but needs us to grasp its implication to our daily living. May your kingdom come O God. The wolf and lamb imagery is followed by the phrase, “In Strengthen your people with hope your kingdom Lord, love is the seal to all who call you Lord”. May your kingdom come O God. Putting these two together—unless we who love the Lord live the seal we carry, there will be no feasting of the wolf Justice and peace to prevail. and the lamb. Words and Music The song concludes with a prayer for strength that we might Lim Swee Hong have hope. The prayer in the song hopes for the kingdom of God to come soon! Scan the QR codes to listen to the hymn This is an appropriate song to include in our Advent repertoire. Advent is a season of waiting. We know that. But what do we do while we wait? 1 Email to writer, 5 Sep 2020. The third line of the song was originally “one need not be white”. To suit the Asian context, the phrase was changed to “one need not be privileged”. However, the word privileged has three syllables to one note and creates an awkward inflection. “One need not be rich” was the better choice. 2 Ibid.
Soundings ¢ Dr Roland Chia is Chew Hock Hin Professor of Christian Doctrine at Trinity Theological College and Theological and Research Advisor at the Ethos Institute for Public Christianity (http://ethosinstitute.sg) The voice of tradition “Soundings” is a series of essays that, like the waves of a sonogram, explore issues in society, and the church in light of the Gospel and Christian understanding. I n The Future of Evangelical Christianity, Donald Evangelical Christians have prided themselves as the heirs Bloesch expressed his anxiety over the perceptible of the 16th century Reformers in that they uphold Holy theological immaturity of the evangelical Church. Scriptures as the authoritative Word of God. However, “Modern evangelicalism”, he writes, “is confronted with their general disregard for Christian tradition and the the embarrassing fact that its special emphases reveal individualistic ethos they seem to have imbibed have considerable theological immaturity and even theological made this belief in Scripture’s absolute authority in faith heterodoxy rather than dynamic vibrant orthodoxy”.1 and conduct a dangerous liability. The noted theologian and scholar of Reformation Without the guidance of tradition, evangelical Christians theology, Timothy George, identifies the trenchant have in their possession an authoritative text (Scripture) individualism of modern culture as its cause—“many but without an authoritative interpreter. In a culture of Evangelicals interpret their own conversion as the postmodern individualism and subjectivism, where there is supreme act of individualism, a private response no objective truth, and where we create our own meanings, detached, if not divorced, from the corporate community the Bible is often interpreted and applied in idiosyncratic and of faith”.2 harmful ways when the guiding light of tradition is ignored.
In disregarding tradition, evangelical Christians have In a book that deserves more serious attention than it simply failed to acknowledge the fact that the Church has received, the Methodist theologian William Abraham has been reading Scripture, as well as appropriating and perceptively states that: applying its teaching throughout her history. They seem to think, rather naively (or perhaps even arrogantly), The Church possesses not just a canon of books in its that this rich history of interpretation and theological bible, but also a canon of doctrine, a canon of saints, reflection has nothing to teach them about how the a canon of Fathers, a canon of theologians, a canon of Bible should be read and understood. liturgy, a canon of bishops, a canon of councils, a canon of ecclesiastical regulations, a canon of icons, and the like. Some writers have laid the blame for the current malaise in contemporary evangelical Christianity at the door of It is this body of tradition, in all its richness and diversity, the 16th century Reformers. This, however, betrays a that should guide the Church in every age in her reading somewhat caricatured understanding of the Reformers. of the Bible. To be sure, Reformers such as Martin Luther and John Properly understood, Christian tradition may be said to Calvin emphasised the supreme and unrivalled authority be the result of the work of the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of of Scripture in their famous assertion sola scriptura truth whose role is to guide the Church into all truth (John (Scripture alone). However, although the Reformers 16:13). This is the same Spirit who inspired the writers and insisted on the primary authority of the Bible, they also texts of Scripture (2 Tim 3:16–17). revered the secondary authority of Christian tradition. Thus, while evangelical Christians must continue to In Luther’s Large Catechism, we find these words: “Here uphold the supreme authority of Scripture, and diligently you find the whole essence of God, his will and his read it as the Word of God, they must never ignore the work beautifully portrayed in few but comprehensive voice of tradition. For to fail to come under the tutelage words. In them all our wisdom consists—a wisdom which of the Church’s rich theological and spiritual traditions is transcends all human wisdom.” to become susceptible to the seductions of the tempers of our time and the spirit of the age (zeitgeist). The Reformer is not here describing the Bible, but the Apostles’ Creed. He boldly adds that “the Creed brings us 1 Donald Blesch, The Future of Evangelical Christianity: A Call for Unity full mercy, sanctified us and makes us acceptable to God.” Amid Diversity (Colorado Springs, CO: Helmers and Howard, 1988), 9. 2 Timothy George, “An Evangelical Reflection on Scripture and Tradition,” In the same way, John Wesley, who claimed to be homo in Your Word is Truth: A Project of Evangelicals and Catholics Together, unius libri (“man of one book”), read voraciously across eds. Charles Colson and Richard Neuhaus (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, the traditions—especially the writings of the early 2002), 13. Church Fathers—and drew extensively from them. As 3 Martin Luther, Luther’s Large Catechism, trans. J. N. Lenker (Minneapolis: Albert Outler has observed, while Wesley affirmed the Augsburg Publishing House, 1967), chapters 165, 167. Protestant principle of sola scriptura he interpreted sola 4 John Wesley, “A Plain Account of Christian Perfection,” in The Works of to mean “primarily” rather than “solely”. Rev. John Wesley, Vol. XI, ed. Thomas Jackson (London: Wesleyan Methodist Book Room, 1829–31. Reprinted Grand Rapids, MI: Baker, 1978), 373. |METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020 25
TRAC Bible Matters ¢ The Rev Clarence Lee has been a TRAC pastor since 2010. He is currently pastoring at Rangsit Methodist Church in Thailand under the Methodist Missions Society. Should all disciples handle poisonous snakes? W hen I came across this Verse 18 seems to suggest that all Syriac manuscript, about one hundred question, my first thought disciples should be able to handle Armenian manuscripts, and the two was not how to answer it, poisonous snakes without being oldest Georgian manuscripts.”2 Even but: “Why the question?” For those harmed—is this correct? early Church Fathers like Clement of living in Singapore, snake-handling Alexandria and Origen do not show may be far removed from any First, how reliable are these any awareness of the existence of association with the Christian faith. verses? the longer ending, and Eusebius and Jerome attest that verses 9 to 20 were This, however, is not the case in the Many of our Bibles have a statement absent from the majority of Greek Appalachian region of the United at the end of Mark 16:8 to the effect copies of Mark known to them.3 States. Snake-handling has been a that Some of the earliest manuscripts practice in some churches there since do not include Mark 16:9—20. What Moreover, the non-sequitur nature the early 20th Century and is still does this mean? of its contents, coupled with its prevalent today. This practice was obvious knowledge of subject matter popularised throughout southeast In brief, the New Testament is not in the other three Gospels4 (which USA by George Went Hensley (1880– derived from “autograph copies”— were dated later than Mark), all 1955), a Church of God Holiness i.e. the original document written cause scholars to conclude that this Movement pastor who travelled the by the author—since they are lost “longer ending” of Mark must have region to promote it. to us. Rather, the New Testament is been inserted later (perhaps by the put together from manuscripts—i.e. early Church) to smoothen out what Hensley required snake handling as handwritten copies of the original— seemed to them an inadequate or evidence of salvation. He argued of which more than 5000 exist, lost ending.5 Nevertheless, this does that if believers really had the Holy dating from about AD 135 (or earlier) not necessarily render its contents Spirit within them, they should be to AD 1200 at the latest.1 They show inauthentic. We just need to be aware able to handle rattlesnakes and other remarkable agreement in general. that it was most probably not written venomous snakes. They should also Naturally, the earlier the date of by Mark himself. be able to drink poison and suffer the manuscript, the more reliable no harm whatsoever. He based his it would be its accuracy, since it Second, do we really have an teaching on Mark 16:17—18: is closer to the time of the actual instruction here to pick up events. Yet we are told in our Bibles snakes? “And these signs will accompany that the earliest manuscripts do not those who believe: In my name include verses 9 to 20! The verb “will pick up” in verse 18 they will drive out demons; they (ἀροῦσιν) is an indicative verb, not will speak in new tongues; they will New Testament scholar James R. an imperative one. The same verb pick up snakes with their hands; Edwards asserts: “The two oldest and is used in Matthew 4:6 and Luke and when they drink deadly poison, most important manuscripts of the 4:11, when the devil tempted Jesus it will not hurt them at all; they will Bible, codex Vaticanus (B) and codex to throw himself off the highest place their hands on sick people, Sinaiticus ()א, omit 16:9—20, as do point in the temple by saying that, and they will get well.” several early translations or versions, as the Scriptures promised, God including the Old Latin, the Sinaitic would command His angels to “lift |26 METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020
you up” (ἀροῦσιν). This suggests a of these verses speak of snakes in Reading this verse, I recall that many “lifting/picking up” that may come a negative light. For example, they of the snake-handling preachers in response to a previous action, are described as dangerous to both of our time died after being bitten rather than an instruction to actively animals and humans,7 as poisonous8 by poisonous snakes. George Went do something. and creatures we hope to render Hensley himself died from the bite harmless one day.9 They are used to of a snake he brought to a Sunday Verse 17 supports this drift by refer to Israel’s enemies,10 to things Service. Jamie Coots, another famous clearly saying: “And these signs will harmful,11 to the ungodly12 and to snake-handling preacher, also died accompany those who believe…” Satan.13 this way. And so did many others. We can therefore safely say that Were these not a consequence of the actions, which follow this line, Only a handful of verses see the their “testing” God? are those that come by way of creature used to convey something accompaniment, rather than an positive. In John 3:14—15, for In conclusion, it is quite clear that the action to be initiated. example, it is used for comparison to Bible does not instruct us to handle Christ’s crucifixion and the salvation poisonous snakes. On a practical As such, what circumstances could it gives. John’s reference for these note, I am rather thankful. There are the author(s) of this verse possibly verses was Numbers 21:7—9, where many snakes within the vicinity of be thinking of, when they wrote Moses, under the Lord’s instruction, our church here at Rangsit in Pathum about Christians picking up snakes made a bronze snake and set it on Thani, Thailand, and it would not in response, and not being harmed a pole, so that those bitten by fiery be difficult to find one for Sunday in the process? Scholars believe serpents would look at it and live. Service. But I think my members that it is most probably the incident would protest! They are more than in Acts 28, where Paul and other Nevertheless, this bronze snake that familiar with the harm and potential prisoners landed in Malta, following “saved” does not erase the fact that danger snakes can pose to their a shipwreck. The islanders treated the people’s affliction came by way children and the community. them kindly and built a fire to keep of snakes in the first place. And them warm. When a viper emerged interestingly, Moses’ bronze image The views expressed in this article are from the firewood and fastened later became an idol that Hezekiah personal and may not reflect the official itself on Paul’s hand, the islanders had to destroy, as people were position of The Methodist Church in thought Paul must be so evil that he making offerings to it.14 Singapore. This version of the article has could not escape death, even though been edited for brevity. A full version of the saved from the shipwreck. But seeing We see, therefore, that by and large, article can be found at http://www.trac- that Paul suffered no ill-effects the biblical witness takes a rather mcs.org.sg/index.php/resources/bible- whatsoever, they concluded that grim outlook on the creature, and is matters?layout=edit&id=264 he must be a god, which probably certainly not a source that promotes facilitated his witness to them. an active handling of snakes. The 1Edwards, J. R., The Gospel according to snake is, in general, a harmful Mark, (Grand Rapids, MI; Leicester, England: The author very likely had this creature, which God may also use to Eerdmans; Apollos, 2002), p. 497. / 2Ibid. / incident in mind, since these verses mete out judgment. 3Ibid. /4For instance, John 20:1–8 (the story of appear in an ending that was later Mary Magdalene), Luke 24:13–35 (the story included in Mark’s Gospel. If this was Allow me to highlight one verse of the Emmaus road), and Matthew 28:18–20 indeed the author’s reference, we can in particular. 1 Corinthians 10:9 (the Great Commission). /5Cole, R. A., Mark: An once again confirm that the actions in says: “We should not test Christ, as Introduction and Commentary—Vol. 2, (Downers verses 17—18 are more of responses some of them did—and were killed Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1989), p. 342. / to situations that occur, rather than by snakes.” Clearly, we are not to 6Manser, M. H. Dictionary of Bible Themes: The initiatives to prove a position, or a “test” Christ (or “the Lord” in some Accessible and Comprehensive Tool for Topical feature to be made a regular in the manuscripts). New Testament scholar Studies (London: Martin Manser, 2009). / 7Ge life of the Church. Leon Morris says that “testing” here 49:17. See also Ge 3:15; Ex 4:3; 7:9-13; Pr 23:32; has the idea of “seeing how far one Ecc 10:8,11; Isa 30:6; Ac 28:3-6. / 8Isa 14:29. Third, what is the biblical can go” with God. Some people See also Dt 8:15; 32:33; Job 20:14,16; Rev 9:19. stance towards snakes in have tested God’s limits in this way, / 9 Isa 11:8. / 7 Isa 27:1; Jer 46:22; 51:34. / general? Paul tells us, and were consequently 10Mt 7:9-10 pp; Lk 11:11. / 11Ps 58:4-5 See also killed by snakes. Ps 140:3; Mt 3:7; 12:34; 23:33; Ro 3:13. / 12Rev The Bible has at least 53 verses 12:9 See also Ge 3:1-13; 2Co 11:3; Rev 20:2. / referring to snakes or the like.6 Most 13 2 Kgs 18:4. / 14Morris, L., 1 Corinthians: an introduction and commentary—Vol. 7. (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1985), 141. |METHODIST MESSAGE NOVEMBER 2020 27
Home ¢ Christopher Chow is a member of Barker Road Methodist Church. He is the chairperson of the Prison Ministry and Epworth Community Services. / Photo courtesy of Christopher Chow What does being a A s I have never gone through any structured instruction on Methodism, it is sometimes a Methodist challenge for me to provide an explanation of its core tenets and practices. Rather, my understanding of mean to you? Methodism was developed through the actions of my fellow Methodists around me. Christopher Chow with his wife, Cynthia When I was in Anglo-Chinese School (ACS), those in the ACS family, my teachers, classmates and peers in the Boys’ Brigade showed me through their actions what God’s love is and how this mighty educational institution was established by the faithfulness of an impoverished preacher who answered God’s call. When I was in the army, my commanding officer inspired me to invest my energies to care for those who had been incarcerated, something which I am still motivated to do today. In church, I was blessed by pastors such as the Rev Dr Malcolm Tan and the Rev Dr Chiu Ming Li, who reminded me through their actions whilst the big picture is important in Christian leadership, we are to never forget to love and care for the individual, for the God we serve is as concerned for the humble sparrow as much as he is for mighty nations. For me, being a Methodist is about not only knowing His Word but living it as well. It is to “preach the gospel at all times; use words if necessary”.
Looking Ahead ¢ Scan to see events online! NOVEMBER PRAY FOR THE 45th SESSION OF THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES 6 to 7 Nov 2020 (ETAC); 16 to19 Nov 2020 (CAC); 23 to 26 Nov 2020 (TRAC) Pray for the election of the presidents and God’s guidance as the clergy and lay delegates gather to discuss future plans as a conference and share about their ministries. Pray also for the logistics and preparation of meetings, including all technical details and measures required. Representatives from General Conference councils and Methodist-linked organisations will also be sharing about their ministries. Organised by Annual Conference offices. For more info, please contact your respective Annual Conference office. NOVEMBER IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON MENTAL HEALTH 14 Nov 2020 (Saturday), 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. via ZOOM 9220-8954 (Priscilla Low) [email protected] The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic extend beyond physical pain, the area of mental health has been the centre of many discussions as people around the world grapple with having to cope alone while being under lockdown or facing stress over lost livelihoods and lives of loved ones. The speaker, Dr Jared Ng, a consultant at the Institute of Mental Health, Singapore will share his experiences of understanding and coming to terms with the impact that the current health crisis may have on our elderly. Organised by TRAC Seniors Ministry, supported by Agency for Integrated Care JANUARY COMPANIONS IN CHRIST LEADERS’ TRAINING 2021 14 Jan (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.); 15 Jan (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) 2021 TBC $140 (includes 2 light breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 love feast, leader’s guide and training materials) https://disciple.methodist.org.sg Register at https://disciple.methodist.org.sg/index.php/en/component/rsform/form/12-companions-in-christ- leaders-training (closing date 24 Dec 2020) fb.com/Disciple.Singapore [email protected] 6765-5301 The Companions in Christ (CIC) series offer a powerfully transforming small group experience that builds spiritual practices within congregations, helping participants be more fully open to God and to one another. CIC encompasses 28 weeks of Scripture reading of regular sessions beginning with a reading followed by five daily exercises that help illuminate the theme and prepare for the small group meeting. • Learn classic spiritual practices, and develop new daily patterns • Deepen relationship with God and with the group • Help build spiritual companions in Christ, support each other and take a spiritual journey Organised by Disciple Agency MCS WHATSAPP BROADCAST GROUP In this unpredictable and spiritually challenging time, MCS will send updates, information and prayers when you sign up with our latest Whatsapp Broadcast Group! Here’s how. First, please save +65 6478-4786 in your phone contacts as “MCS”. (Please note that you will not be able to receive broadcast messages without saving the number.) Then complete the form found here: https://tinyurl.com/mcswhatsapp, and you are done! :)
THINK ¢ Carol Loi is the International Director of Generations of Virtue, a ministry that is committed to teaching sexual wholeness and integrity, and equipping families to transform culture. Raising a resilient generation in a complex world I was raised in a Christian home and studied at a Because of my “wilderness” experience, I can relate to Methodist primary school. When I was about 14 years those who have doubts and drift away from church. I old, I dropped out of church. Over the next 20 years, have three key learning points: I was an atheist. 1. It is important to provide a safe space for youth to I started to consider going back to church when raise questions and discover Truth for themselves. expecting my younger daughter. I felt it was getting This can help them to build their own faith and hard to be a parent in an increasingly complex world convictions. Ideally this should start in the home. and believed I needed an anchor to raise my children. This means having the humility to say “I don’t know, So I explored going to back to my Christian roots. but let’s find out together” when they raise questions that stump us. About nine months after going back to church, I was baptised. It took another three years of prayers and 2. Confidence in raising the next generation involves humility before my husband decided to do the same. continuous learning and application of the learning. Over the next decade, my children grew up in church, This could mean using apologetics to reach the assimilated to youth groups smoothly and decided hearts and minds of youth. It could also involve to be baptised. As a family, we make efforts to grow intentional discipleship through journeying with spiritually together—we attended prayer meetings youth, creating opportunities for them to connect and conferences together, went on family retreats and faith and life, and to wrestle with the complex issues prayed and served together. that they face so that they can have confidence and clarity to be effective ambassadors of Christ. I am now the International Director of Generations of Virtue, a ministry that is committed to transforming 3. Praying for and with our children is the most culture for the glory of God, one family at a time. I foundational aspect of being a good steward of am also a Colson Fellow, commissioned by the Colson the lives that God has given us the privilege to Center for Christian Worldview to equip fellow Christians train up the way that they should go. Simple acts in forming a true and coherent understanding of the like praying a blessing for our children as they world so as to deal effectively with the controversies of leave home for school each morning, and praying this cultural moment. I run a social enterprise providing a blessing for them before they go to bed can be digital literacy education, leadership and family life great connection time with our family and God. education as well as mental toughness training. Be part of the movement to raise a resilient generation Contact me at [email protected] for Generations of Virtue’s latest learning opportunities. You can also follow the ministry in Telegram at https://t.me/GOVasia, as well as Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/GenerationsOfVirtueAsia
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